[Bri123]

Excuse me if this is posted in the wrong place. I merely need someone to answer this question.

When you need help and it is pretty late in the game, how do you know what help to purchase/seek? Friends, school/company counseling, outpatient/inpatient therapy, online blog support.

The reason I ask is that after procrastinating getting help so long, I am on a very very rapid downward spike of depression and am worried for my health. It would almost be worth it to drop everything and try to seek help, but that's a tough thing to do. Especially considering coming back and facing people or trying to pick up old life afterward.

So, how do you know/determine how extreme to get in treatment?

[shezbut]

If you've been fighting depression for a while, and your symptoms are pretty major than going in to see a school or company counselor probably isn't the right answer for you. I'd recommend seeking outpatient therapy from a psychologist as well as a psychiatrist (as the pDoc only diagnoses and medically treats mental illnesses).

If your difficulties are pretty severe right now, I would recommend calling a helpline to talk with someone who is well-versed and can give you a professional opinion as to what you need to do NOW. Maybe inpatient is best. Especially if you're actively planning the end.

1-800-273-TALK which is: 1-800-273-8255

Lifeline

Btw, welcome to Psych Central! Gentle hugs to you...